DATU ODIN SINSUAT, MAGUINDANAO DEL NORTE — An improvised rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) ammunition was discovered on Tuesday afternoon, October 8, 2025, in Sitio Upper Siawan, Barangay Tamontaka, sending a brief scare among local residents.
According to initial reports, the explosive was accidentally unearthed by the father of a certain Cristine Canoog while digging for the construction of their house. Concerned for their safety, Canoog immediately contacted Barangay Midwife Arlyn Janet Romano to report the incident.
Romano then relayed the information to Barangay Kagawad Pedro C. Andil, who promptly called the Philippine Marines hotline stationed at Crossing Broce to alert authorities.
Responding to the call, intelligence personnel from the Marine Battalion Landing Team 5 (MBLT-5) rushed to the area to verify the report. Upon confirming the presence of an explosive, the Marines sought assistance from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team based in Cotabato City to handle the safe recovery and disposal of the improvised RPG ammunition.
Barangay officials and responding military personnel ensured that nearby residents were kept at a safe distance while the area was secured pending the arrival of the EOD unit.
Authorities are still investigating the origin of the explosive and whether it has any link to previous armed activities in the region.
Barangay officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious or dangerous objects found in their surroundings to prevent possible harm.